Kentucky’s Upgraded IDs

If you are a licensed driver in the state of Kentucky, you are probably aware that the state transportation cabinet is set to roll out new IDs for Kentucky residents. While it has been in the works for a several months, residents will soon have the opportunity to upgrade their driver’s license so that they are compliant with the Real ID Act.

Which ID is Right For You?

It can be a bit confusing figuring out which ID is best for you. Basically, there are two new IDs residents have the opportunity to choose from: (1) the new standard credential and (2) the voluntary travel ID. The new standard credential is essentially what it sounds like. It is a standard driver’s license that gives you the ability to operate a motor vehicle, only with an upgraded look and compliance with federal law. If you only drive, never fly, and worry about having your name in a federal database, then this is the ID for you. However, if you travel or plan to travel after October of 2020, flying domestically will now require the voluntary travel ID version. This ID is still a valid driver’s license, but it now allows you to fly domestically and access federal facilities such as military bases. Without the voluntary travel ID version, you will be required to have a passport along with your standard driver’s license to fly domestically.

Take Note: Your current license is still valid until its expiration date both for driving and flying. However, after October 2020 when Kentucky’s extension on complying with the Real ID Act expires, you will be required to have a voluntary travel ID to fly domestically. If you travel or plan to travel before October 2020 but your ID does not expire until then, you can still go ahead and upgrade to the voluntary ID as soon as they are available.

So When, Where, and How:

New IDs will be available in Jefferson County beginning sometime between March 19th-22nd;

Shelby County beginning sometime between April 1st-5th;

Oldham County beginning sometime between April 8th-12th;

Spencer County beginning sometime between April 15th-19th.

You can visit your local circuit court and upgrade to a voluntary travel ID for $15, this will expire when your normal license is supposed to.

If you wish to upgrade your ID, your current one is set to expire, or you need one for the first time, you just need to make a visit to your local circuit court office to apply for a new one.

If your license is expired, you simply need to trade in your old one for the new one.

For first-time applicants, you will be required to present proof of identity (i.e. birth certificate), proof of social security card, and proof of residency (i.e. a lease or utility bill). Voluntary travel IDs require the same documents as first-time applicants except you need two documents showing proof of residency instead of one.

After applying/upgrading, you should receive your new ID by mail within five-ten days. Unlike the old IDs, the new ones are valid for eight years.